Mother's Day Play - Study Notes
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Questions and Answers

What is Mrs Pearson’s primary emotional state as described in the play?

  • Excited
  • Joyful
  • Indifferent
  • Worried (correct)

How does Mrs Fitzgerald's personality differ from Mrs Pearson's?

  • Softer and gentler
  • More cheerful and optimistic
  • More sinister and heavier (correct)
  • Lighter and flurried

In which setting does the play primarily take place?

  • The Pearson family's kitchen
  • A park in London
  • The living-room of the Pearson household (correct)
  • A coffee shop

What items are present on the table during the opening scene?

<p>Tea-cups and saucers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What theme is humorously portrayed in 'Mother's Day'?

<p>The status of mothers in a family (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character is described as having a deep voice possibly with an Irish accent?

<p>Mrs Fitzgerald (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs Fitzgerald suggest determines the outcome of Mrs Pearson's fortune?

<p>Her own actions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'suburban Cockney' imply about Mrs Pearson's speaking style?

<p>It has a light and flurried tone (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is George's initial emotional response to his son's words about the club?

<p>Dismay (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Cyril feel about Mrs. Pearson telling George the truth?

<p>He thinks it was unfair. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Pearson suggest could help George with the ridicule at the club?

<p>Going to the club less frequently. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What activity does Cyril mention as a way to enjoy himself?

<p>Attending ice shows (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Pearson express skepticism about regarding Cyril?

<p>His knowledge and opinions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Cyril react when Mrs. Pearson insists to invite Mrs. Fitzgerald in?

<p>He shows reluctance. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Pearson imply about the nature of truth?

<p>It can often be painful. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What underlying theme can be inferred from Mrs. Pearson's actions towards Cyril?

<p>Encouragement to make better choices (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial action taken by Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Fitzgerald during the body swap?

<p>They grasp each other's hands. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Mrs. Fitzgerald react upon realizing her personality has changed into Mrs. Pearson's?

<p>She screams in fright. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Pearson do after she takes on Mrs. Fitzgerald's personality?

<p>She smokes contentedly. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concern does Mrs. Fitzgerald express about her new identity?

<p>She fears for her family's reaction if they see her. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Mrs. Pearson, why is living her life appealing to Mrs. Fitzgerald?

<p>It would bring more freedom and fun. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Mrs. Pearson assure Mrs. Fitzgerald about changing back?

<p>She states it can be done anytime she wants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What personality traits does Mrs. Pearson exhibit after the body swap?

<p>Bold and dominating. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Fitzgerald say in response to her fears about the body swap?

<p>She requests to return to her own body immediately. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is George's initial emotional state when he enters the scene?

<p>Gloomy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Mrs Pearson respond to George not acknowledging Mrs Fitzgerald?

<p>With anger and frustration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Mrs Fitzgerald's reaction to the situation?

<p>She expresses regret and confusion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does George accuse Mrs Fitzgerald of doing?

<p>Forgetting his name (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does George refer to when he mentions 'six and sevens'?

<p>The current state of confusion in the household (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs Pearson demand from George regarding manners?

<p>To acknowledge guests when they arrive (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does George feel about the mention of his club?

<p>Bitter and resentful (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does George mention about Doris?

<p>She has been crying. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What item does Doris want ironed for her outing?

<p>A yellow silk (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Mrs. Pearson respond when Doris requests her to iron the yellow silk?

<p>She refuses and states it's not her responsibility. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Mrs. Pearson's opinion about Doris's workload compared to her own?

<p>Mrs. Pearson works harder. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is Charlie Spence in relation to Doris?

<p>Her date. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critique does Mrs. Pearson offer about Doris's choice in companions?

<p>She thinks Charlie is a bad choice. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Doris react to her mother's criticisms?

<p>She leaves in tears. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What change does Mrs. Pearson express about her usual behavior in the scene?

<p>She is not in the mood to make tea. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Cyril Pearson initially react to the absence of tea?

<p>He expresses annoyance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Mrs. Pearson's initial reaction to Cyril and Doris's behavior?

<p>She regarded them with contempt. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Cyril and Doris suspect could be wrong with the third person?

<p>She might have had a concussion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Doris react to the behavior of the third person?

<p>She felt sad and cried. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Mrs. Pearson doing when she entered the scene?

<p>Carrying a bottle of stout and a glass. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Cyril suggest he would do for Mother's Day?

<p>Stay in for the day. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Cyril's opinion about the possibility of the third person having a concussion?

<p>He found it far-fetched. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best reflects Doris's feelings towards the third person's behavior?

<p>She thought it was strange and concerning. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Doris and Cyril respond when Mrs. Pearson entered?

<p>They tried to hide their laughter. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Indignation

A dramatic expression of anger or annoyance, often involving raised voice and strong language

Sulk

A state of being annoyed or dissatisfied with someone or something

Objection

A person's strong dislike or disapproval of someone or something

Give oneself up as a bad job

To give up trying to do something because it is believed to be too difficult

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Aggressively

A style of speaking or writing that is intended to be aggressive or confrontational

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Coolly

A manner of speaking or behaving that is calm and unemotional

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Change

The act of changing something usual or expected to something different

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Bother

To consider something to be worth giving up effort for

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What is the main theme of 'Mother's Day'?

This play explores how a mother tries to assert her rights in a family setting.

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Describe Mrs. Pearson's character.

Mrs. Pearson is portrayed as a worried and pleasant woman in her forties, who is trying to assert her own needs.

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How is Mrs. Fitzgerald characterized?

Mrs. Fitzgerald is a strong, older woman with a sinister aura, contrasting sharply with Mrs. Pearson in personality and voice.

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Where and when does the play take place?

The play is set in a suburban family's home, likely during the recent time period.

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What is revealed to have just transpired between Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Fitzgerald?

Mrs. Fitzgerald has just told Mrs. Pearson’s fortune, which is open to different interpretations.

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How is Mrs. Pearson's voice described?

Mrs. Pearson's voice is described as light and flurried, possibly reflecting her anxiety and nervous energy.

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What is unique about Mrs. Fitzgerald's voice?

Mrs. Fitzgerald speaks in a very distinctive tone, potentially with an Irish accent, reflecting her bold and commanding personality.

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What can be inferred about the upcoming events in the play?

The play promises to explore the dynamics of a family and the challenge of asserting one's own needs, particularly in a mother's role.

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What spell was cast by Mrs. Pearson?

A magical spell used to exchange the personalities and bodies of two people.

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What does the play's title, 'Mother’s Day', imply?

The act of swapping personalities and bodies with another person.

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What are the contrasting personalities of Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Fitzgerald?

Mrs. Pearson's personality is bold, dominating and confident, whereas Mrs. Fitzgerald's personality is nervous and fluttering.

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What happens to the women after the spell is cast?

Due to the spell, the two women switch appearances and become each other, making Mrs. Fitzgerald appear bold in Mrs. Pearson's body and vice versa.

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What can you infer from the play setting?

The play's setting suggests a tense atmosphere and the possibility of a dramatic conflict between the two characters.

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How do Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Fitzgerald react to the spell's effects?

Mrs. Pearson is in control of the situation and has confidence in her ability to reverse the spell, while Mrs. Fitzgerald expresses concern and vulnerability about the situation.

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What is Mrs. Pearson's primary goal?

Mrs. Pearson's objective is to manipulate Mrs. Fitzgerald's family by taking advantage of her appearance and personality.

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What major themes are explored in the play?

The play explores themes of identity, manipulation, and the complexity of human relationships.

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Pompy-ompy Pearson

A term used to describe someone who is easily fooled or tricked, often because of their naivety or lack of experience.

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Hurt feelings

When someone's feelings are hurt because they have been told an unpleasant truth, often about themselves.

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Doubt

A strong belief that something is unlikely, even though there's evidence to suggest otherwise.

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Enjoying oneself

The act of enjoying oneself in various ways, usually involving entertainment, leisure, and social activities.

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Opinion's worth

A person's belief that they are right or have a valid opinion, even if others disagree.

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Silly old bag

A person who is very old, often with a negative connotation suggesting a lack of youthfulness, energy, or relevance.

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Sharply

The act of speaking or acting with hostility, aggression, or disapproval, often in response to a perceived offense.

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Sharp hurried knocking

A spontaneous knocking on a door that is unexpectedly hurried, giving the impression of urgency or eagerness.

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Pompy-ompy

A person who is overly concerned with their appearance and social image, often trying to impress others.

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Sixes and sevens

A state of disagreement or confusion, often characterized by a lack of order or understanding.

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Intimidated

To feel intimidated or frightened, often by a person or situation.

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Bitterly

To express bitter resentment or disapproval of someone or something.

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Make someone look silly

To make someone look foolish or ridiculous, often in front of others.

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Duke of Edinburgh

A person who is perceived as a superior or powerful individual, often with a sense of entitlement.

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Bad manners

To act in a way that is rude or disrespectful, often by ignoring someone.

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Study Notes

Mother's Day Play - Study Notes

  • Playwright: J.B. Priestley
  • Setting: Living room of the Pearson family's house in a London suburb.
  • Time: The present.
  • Characters:
    • Mrs. Annie Pearson
    • George Pearson
    • Doris Pearson
    • Cyril Pearson
    • Mrs. Fitzgerald
  • Plot Summary: A humorous play portraying the Pearson family's reaction to Mrs. Pearson asserting her rights.
  • Setting Description: The living room is a comfortably furnished, lived-in room in a suburban house. Specific furniture like a settee, armchair, small tables, and two chairs are mentioned. The fireplace is assumed to be in a wall. There are also windows and possibly two doors, each leading to different areas of the house.
  • Characters' Personalities:
    • Mrs. Pearson: A pleasant but worried woman in her forties. Tends to be flustered and easily influenced.
    • Mrs. Fitzgerald: An older, heavier, strong, and somewhat sinister character who is a fortune teller. Has a deep, perhaps Irish voice, contrasting with Mrs. Pearson's lighter tone.
    • George Pearson: a worried but decent man who is in his early fifties
    • Doris Pearson: A young, pretty, spoiled character in her early twenties.
  • Central Theme: The play explores the dynamic of a family and specifically the mother-daughter and mother-son relationships, with a focus on the rights of women in mid-20th-century Britain, and the social norms of the time.
  • Play Structure: The play takes place over an afternoon. The setting, cast and costumes and actions within it portray the status of the family.
  • Dialogue and Interaction: The dialogue is crucial to show the interplay between the characters, with both humorous and serious exchanges that reflect their individual personalities and relationships.
  • Social Commentary: This play uses humor to underline the social norms, expectations and behaviours associated with women and the family during the 1950’s, and the tensions inherent in these.

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Mother's Day PDF Past Paper

Description

Explore the study notes of J.B. Priestley's humorous play 'Mother's Day'. Focus on the setting, characters, and plot summary to understand the dynamics within the Pearson family. This guide offers insights into the character personalities and the significance of the living room setting.

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